Let’s talk CARBS! People are always asking me about low-carb diets! Well, here’s the truth: we all need carbohydrates in our diet and the RIGHT carbs are what is SO important. Eliminating carbs to try to lose weight is not the answer!

Carbohydrates provide your body with energy, which you NEED to fuel your workouts and daily activities. The key is learning how to choose healthy carbs that will nourish your body, keep you feeling satisfied, and give you the energy you need to feel your very best.

Simple vs. Complex Carbs

It isn’t a bad idea to cut back on simple carbohydrates like white bread, crackers, and frozen yogurt. These foods tend to be low in nutrients and high in sugar. They can cause spikes in your blood sugar, leaving you feeling tired and hungry shortly after eating.

Instead, focus on complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice, and seeded whole-grain bread. These are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help regulate digestion, support heart health, and give you long-lasting energy.

These complex carbs will provide you with more energy to fuel your day - and your workout routine!

Why Fiber Matters

Fiber is one of the biggest benefits of choosing the right carbs. It works like a broom, sweeping through your digestive system, keeping you regular, and helping you feel full longer. Foods rich in fiber also help balance your blood sugar and can lower your risk of heart disease.

Fiber-rich choices include: beans, lentils, leafy greens, apples, beets, berries, chia seeds, and whole grains.

Join my Denise Austin Membership for recipes like my Overnight Chia Pudding!

Balance is Everything

Attempting to eliminate an entire food group is an unhealthy approach and will set you up for failure! I always recommend eating small, healthy portions that are part of well-BALANCED meals. That means pairing your carbs with lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of colorful veggies.

Here are some of my go-to carbs that I keep stocked in my kitchen:

• Sweet potatoes – satisfying and versatile (I love my Baked Chicken Tenders w/ Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges in My Fitness Hub)
• Oatmeal – a cozy, fiber-filled breakfast
• Quinoa – perfect for salads and bowls
• Whole-grain bread – toast with avocado or nut butter is a quick favorite
• Berries – great for snacks, smoothies, or yogurt bowls

The Bottom Line

Carbs are not your enemy — they are your fuel! The secret is choosing the right ones and enjoying them in balance with protein, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables.

So next time you’re making a meal, ask yourself: Am I choosing carbs that will truly fuel my body and support my health? When you do, you’ll notice more energy, better workouts, and a stronger body and mind.

Here’s to enjoying carbs the healthy way - with balance, moderation, and lots of delicious flavor!

Let’s live FIT, HAPPY and HEALTHY - together!!

Denise